The American Legion Department of Puerto Rico Launches the 2026 High School Oratorical Scholarship Competition

Elizabeth Martinez Gonzalez
5 days ago
2 min read

Written by 1st Vice Commander Elizabeth Martinez Gonzalez dept.pr.pr@gmail.com

Empowering Youth • Honoring Citizenship • Building Future Leaders

The American Legion, Department of Puerto Rico, proudly announces the opening of the 2026 American Legion High School Oratorical Scholarship Program: “A Constitutional Speech Contest.” This prestigious national competition, established in 1938, continues its mission of educating young people on the principles of the United States Constitution while developing their leadership, public speaking, and civic engagement skills.

For generations, the Oratorical Contest has served as a platform for high school students across the nation to strengthen their voice, refine their confidence, and showcase their understanding of one of the most important documents in American history. Now, once again, Puerto Rico will join the national stage by preparing and presenting outstanding young individuals ready to represent our island with pride.

A Transformative Opportunity for Puerto Rico’s Youth

Puerto Rico is home to talented students with strong voices and tremendous potential. The Oratorical Contest offers them a unique opportunity to:

Develop powerful communication and public speaking skills
Strengthen critical thinking and research abilities
Deepen their understanding of the U.S. Constitution
Compete for significant national scholarships, including awards of $25,000, $22,500, and $20,000
Represent Puerto Rico at the National Finals in Indianapolis and Hillsdale College, Michigan

The American Legion encourages all educators, counselors, and school leaders to help identify and support their most promising students who are young leaders committed to learning, service, and civic responsibility.

2026 Competition Timeline – Department of Puerto Rico

Recruitment & Registration Period

1 December 2025 – 13 January 2026 Student packages must be submitted to dept.pr.pr@gmail.com by the final registration date of 13 January 2026.

Local Level (Post/School)

Competitions completed NLT 7 February 2026

District Level

District contests completed NLT 28 February 2026

Department Finals – Puerto Rico

21 March 2026 at Las Lomas Office

National Finals – Indianapolis / Hillsdale College, Michigan

16–18 May 2026 National orientation, rounds of competition, evaluations, and recognition ceremonies.

A Call to Puerto Rico’s Schools and Educators

Schools play an essential role in the success of this program. Administrators and teachers are encouraged to:

Promote the contest among students
Help identify high-potential candidates
Provide guidance as students prepare speeches
Certify eligibility documents as required

Together, we can ensure Puerto Rico is represented by a well-prepared, confident, and passionate student ready to compete at the highest national level.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders

Through the Oratorical Contest, students develop not only academic and communication skills, but also a deeper understanding of the values and responsibilities that sustain our democracy. This competition shapes the leaders of tomorrow and gives young people the tools they need to influence their communities and contribute to a stronger nation.

The American Legion, Department of Puerto Rico, is committed to supporting each participant throughout this journey, from local contests to the national stage. We are excited to meet this year’s candidates, witness their growth, and proudly stand beside the student who will represent Puerto Rico at the National Finals.